Dealing with a Blocked Driveway: A Guide to Your Rights
Finding a stranger's car parked across your driveway is a common and deeply frustrating experience for many residents. Whether it occurs during the hectic school run or when a delivery driver stops 'just for a second,' the feeling of being trapped can be overwhelming. You might be surprised to learn about the specific powers you have to address this issue and when authorities will intervene. One frustrated resident recently turned to the Police National Legal Database to clarify the legal stance, asking: 'Someone has parked their car and it is blocking my driveway. What shall I do?'
Initial Steps and Civil Parking Enforcement
If you are currently facing a bumper blocking your exit, the first step, as advised by police, is always to attempt a calm conversation with your neighbours or the vehicle owner. However, if this approach fails, it is crucial to understand Civil Parking Enforcement (CPE) and how it safeguards your access. In many regions across the UK, local councils have taken responsibility for parking matters under CPE. According to the Ask the Police website: 'Under CPE, it's an offence to park a vehicle that blocks a dropped kerb driveway.'
To navigate this, follow these steps:
- Check your area: Verify if your local authority employs CPE by consulting the official Government list.
- Report it: If CPE is active, contact your local council directly to report the obstruction.
- Police help: If your council lacks these powers, police may only step in if the vehicle physically prevents you from leaving your property.
Advice from Authorities and Legal Clarifications
The Metropolitan Police acknowledge that having your way blocked is 'very frustrating' for any resident. They recommend a soft approach initially, stating: 'If you can find the owner of the vehicle, we'd first recommend asking them politely to move it.' If the driver is unavailable, leaving a polite note on the windscreen is suggested, as they may not realise they have caused a problem.
The RAC provides further clarity, noting that while you do not own the road outside your house, you have rights regarding your driveway. They explain: 'It is perfectly legal to park outside someone's house, unless the vehicle is blocking a driveway or a wheel is over a dropped kerb.'
Trespassing and Designated Parking Spaces
A police spokesperson addressed the issue of trespassing, stating: 'If someone parks their vehicle on your driveway without your permission, this is trespassing. This is a civil dispute and not something we can help you with. If it happens repeatedly with the same person or vehicle, you might want to seek advice from Citizens Advice or a solicitor, but we would always recommend having a polite word with the driver first, as there may have been a simple misunderstanding.'
For designated parking spaces, negotiation is also key. If you return home to find your space occupied, police advise: 'If someone has parked in your designated parking space without your permission, our first advice is always to try and resolve the issue peacefully yourself. If you can't find the driver to speak to them, try leaving a polite note on their windscreen.' If you lease a property with a parking space, contact the responsible party, such as the freeholder, council, or managing agent. Should the problem persist, report it as antisocial behaviour.
